Evansville, IN – VW Sports, L.L.C., majority owner of the Evansville Thunderbolts hockey team, announces their purchase of Mike Hall’s ownership interest in the team. Mike, a local businessman, currently serves as President of the Thunderbolts. VW Sports, L.L.C. is a subsidiary of VenuWorks, Inc., a facility management company that currently manages the Ford Center which serves as home ice to the team.

Hall and VW Sports partnered together to acquire the Southern Professional Hockey League affiliation in early 2016.
“Mike was integral in the leadership of the Thunderbolts through our first season in Evansville,” said Steve Peters, President of VenuWorks. “We are very appreciative of his hard work and dedication. The foundation he developed will allow us to take this organization to the next level.”

“Early last year, Mike Hall and VenuWorks made a commitment to the City to keep professional hockey in Evansville following the Icemen’s departure,” stated Mayor Lloyd Winnecke. “The City would like to thank Mr. Hall for his part in this endeavor and looks forward to the success of professional hockey in Evansville.”

VW Sports does not anticipate changes in the front office and coaching staffs.

“The SPHL is pleased to continue its relationship with VenuWorks and supports their efforts to enhance the hockey experience in Evansville. We look forward to all the positive changes on and off the ice from now and into next season to provide a top-notch product,” said Jim Combs, President of Southern Professional Hockey League. “We applaud the efforts of Scott Schoenike and his staff. They always work hard to improve the experience at the Ford Center.”

Season tickets for the 2017-18 season are currently on sale. For more information about the Evansville Thunderbolts visit www.evansvillethunderbolts.com.